Word to the Wise
Tuesday, May 17, 2022 - 5th Week of Easter - Tues
[Acts 14:19-28 and John 14:27-31a]"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." [John]
If these words seem familiar to you, there's a reason. They are quoted in the prayer that introduces the "sign of peace" at Mass. This simple gesture at Mass can tell us just how far we have to go in fulfilling Jesus' command to love one another! For some folks it's a real effort to "reach out" to a total stranger in the next pew, or even sitting in the same pew!!! For others it becomes like a class reunion!! The pandemic put a crimp in the gesture but observance is coming back.
Jesus is preparing the disciples for his suffering, death and resurrection, but the mood at the Last Supper is one of uncertainty. He has just done the extraordinary gesture of washing the feet of the disciples. Now he tries to give them something that will help them through the difficulties ahead. It was not an easy task with that bunch and it is not an easy task today. Trying to give peace to a troubled heart demands patience and perseverance! Inner and outer turmoil make a loud noise and one almost has to shout "Peace be with you. Do not be troubled or afraid!" (I try a calmer voice!)
At Mass, the gesture is a reminder of what "communion" with the Lord means. It means also "communion" with our neighbor and we cannot choose one without the other. AMEN